By Diana Penner
A devastating blaze on the morning of Aug. 30 destroyed a house built in 1966, rendering Dan Lamacraft without a home.
The incident took place on Braun’s Island where neighbours could only look on as the house was consumed by the fire.
The Thornhill Volunteer Fire Department arrived promptly on the scene, battling the flames that leaped out of the windows and roof of the residence.
Their timely intervention, coupled with assistance from neighbours and favourable weather conditions, ensured that the fire did not spread to nearby homes and the encompassing woods.
Though the house was completely gutted, and its contents lost to the flames, the biggest heartbreak came with the discovery that two of Lamacraft’s cats perished due to smoke inhalation. However, there remains hope as one of his two other felines has already been found and returned.
Lamacraft, who narrowly escaped with his dog, now faces the daunting task of rebuilding his life without his home and cherished memories of his late wife.
Lamacraft is a retired electrician who moved to Terrace a year ago after living in the Dease Lake area where he and his wife Debbie were hoping to retire.
They however moved to Terrace to address Debbie’s medical needs and she has now passed away.
Neighbours and well-wishers have come together to support Lamacraft. They’ve set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds in addition to arranging for cash donations to be made at the Seniors Corner in Skeena Mall.
For those wishing to assist, contributions can be made through the fundraiser on GoFundMe.